Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Defence if he will confirm that poultry produce used in meals for army barracks is Bord Bia quality assured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57678/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The current contract for the provision of fresh poultry products to the Defence Forces is with Kildare Farm Foods, an Irish Company based in Kildare, who were awarded the contract as part of an open tendering competition, carried out in accordance with national and EU procurement rules. Overall procurement policy is a matter, in the first instance, for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

I am advised that Kildare Farms Foods is not a member of the Board Bia quality assurance scheme. However the company has a full traceability system which allows them to trace their product back to the farmer; this system is detailed and rigorous and is monitored by both the Defence Forces and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Defence Forces have indicated that they are satisfied the products are fully certified and compliant with national and EU requirements.